Tractors, love, and pink ribbons: Kathryn & Jess’ journey to give back 

When Kathryn Hotchkiss underwent chemotherapy in 2017, one thing that brought her immense comfort was spending time out on the tractors with her boys. It became her therapy, her escape from the difficult days of treatment. So, when the idea of fundraising for the chemotherapy department at Queen’s Hospital Burton came up, a tractor run felt like the perfect choice. 

A desire to give back 

From the beginning, it was always Kathryn’s intention to give back to the chemotherapy department. “The team of nurses there are nothing short of extraordinary” Kathryn says. “Their kindness, compassion, and warmth made a daunting process feel a little more bearable – they created a space where I felt at ease, even during the most challenging times”.  

After another diagnosis last year, Kathryn knew it was time to take action, and with the unwavering support of daughter Jess, they began planning their tractor run. 

A community comes together 

Not everyone shared their initial excitement. Kathryn’s son and husband had their doubts, concerned they wouldn’t get enough tractor to take part. This didn’t deter Kathryn and Jess, as they decided to press ahead. What happened next exceeded their expectations with the farming and local communities all coming together to show their support. Kathryn and Jess’ only condition was that every tractor had to be decorated with something pink for breast cancer awareness.  

The big day: pink travels 

Setting off from their home in Foston, Derbyshire, the tractors took on a 25-mile tour, winding their way up to Ashbourne and back to Boylestone via the lanes. Along the route, they were overwhelmed by the sight of so many wonderful people who came out to cheer them on.  

Celebrating success 

After the tractor run, everyone gathered at Boylestone village hall for refreshments and a raffle, keeping with the pink theme. Kathryn and Jess had set a fundraising target of £1,000, but the generosity of everyone involved took them to a total of £4,877. “To raise as much as we did is something we, and everyone who donated, should be incredibly proud of” explains Kathryn. 

Making a difference 

The money raised will go towards making patients’ time at the chemotherapy department in Burton as comfortable as possible. Kathryn says, “This fundraiser wasn’t just about the money; it was about giving back to the staff who make such a difference in patients’ lives every single day”. 

A heartfelt thank you 

Thank you to everyone who supported Kathryn and Jess — family, friends, new friends, and the entire community. Kathryn continues “Your kindness and generosity made this event unforgettable, and to the amazing team at Queen’s Hospital chemotherapy department in Burton, you have our deepest gratitude”.  

Kathryn and Jess’ story is a true testament to the power of compassion and community spirit. We are incredibly moved by their journey and want to extend our thanks — not only for their remarkable fundraising efforts, but also for their dedication to breast cancer awareness in their local community.